Patrick Basham: regressive taxation on sugary drinks

A sugar tax also has undesirable social and economic consequences. This tax is economically regressive, as a disproportionate share of the tax is paid by low earners, who pay a higher proportion of their incomes in sales tax and also consume a disproportionate share of sugary snacks and drinks.

Patrick, please explain why a regressive tax is socially and economically undesirable? After all, a regressive tax is more likely to encourage a majority to vote against increased government intrusiveness.